Davelle

- 102 Suffolk St, New York, NY 10002

In a city filled with endless dining options, some of the most memorable experiences are found in the coziest of spaces. Tucked away on Suffolk Street in the Lower East Side, Davelle is a true hidden gem, a traditional Japanese cafe known as a "kissaten." More than just a restaurant, Davelle offers a unique and intimate escape from the city’s relentless pace. A kissaten, which translates to "tea-drinking shop," is a classic Japanese cafe that focuses on providing a quiet, comfortable atmosphere for enjoying meticulously crafted coffee, tea, and light meals. Davelle beautifully embodies this concept, creating a space that is both trendy and timeless, attracting a mix of locals and tourists alike.

The ambiance at Davelle is a key part of its appeal. The space is small and intimate, with only a handful of tables and bar seats, which adds to its charm and exclusivity. The decor, with its vintage feel and warm, inviting mood, makes you feel as though you've stepped into a quiet cafe in Tokyo. It's a perfect spot for solo dining or a small, casual get-together with friends. Despite its limited seating, the restaurant has a constant buzz, a testament to its popularity and the quality of its offerings. Customers are drawn to its unique and authentic Japanese experience, from the carefully prepared dishes to the extensive selection of teas and coffees that rival the best coffee shops in the city.

The menu at Davelle is a delightful fusion of Japanese and Western-style comfort food, known as "yoshoku." It’s a menu that is both familiar and exciting, with classic items like Chicken Katsu Don and Mentai Spaghetti alongside a variety of delicious and visually appealing toasts. The food is often described as a "primer in the multifarious subgenres and vocabularies of Japanese cuisine," showcasing a range of flavors and styles. The toasts, while considered slightly pricey by some, are a standout, beautifully crafted with unique toppings like spicy cod roe (mentai mayo) and sweet red beans (ogura). The food is consistently praised for its quality and umami-rich flavors, making it a worthy indulgence for a special occasion or a much-needed comforting meal.

Beyond the food, Davelle is a sanctuary for coffee and tea lovers. The cafe offers a variety of expertly prepared coffees, from drip coffee to Kyoto-style cold brew, and a stellar tea selection including Matcha and Hoji-Cha. Their specialty lattes, such as the Iced Matcha Au Lait with Coffee Jelly, are a hit among patrons and are as delicious as they are "Instagrammable." This combination of a high-quality cafe and a refined Japanese restaurant in one small, charming space is a rare find in New York City, and it’s what truly sets Davelle apart. It's a place where you can get a great cappuccino in the morning and a delicious plate of Uni Pasta for dinner, all with the same friendly and attentive service.

Location and Accessibility

Davelle is located at 102 Suffolk St, New York, NY 10002, USA, placing it in the vibrant and bustling Lower East Side. This neighborhood is a hub for culture and dining, easily accessible via public transportation, including the subway. While the restaurant itself is small, with limited seating, it does offer outdoor seating for warmer days. For those with mobility needs, the establishment provides a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all customers can enjoy its unique charm. The cafe’s small size means there can sometimes be a wait for a table, but the atmosphere and quality of the food and drinks make it a rewarding experience for those who are able to get a seat.

Services Offered

• Outdoor seating: A few tables are available outside, perfect for enjoying a coffee or meal on a pleasant day.
• No-contact delivery: Provides a safe and convenient way to enjoy Davelle's menu from the comfort of your home.
• Delivery: A reliable service to get your favorite Japanese comfort food delivered to your door.
• Onsite services: Offers a full dine-in experience, including a coffee bar and table service.
• Takeout: A great option for a quick bite or a to-go coffee when you're on the move.
• Reservations accepted: Given the limited seating, accepting reservations is a key service that allows for better planning and a guaranteed spot.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Japanese Kissaten: Offers a genuine traditional Japanese cafe experience, a rare find in NYC.
• Great Coffee and Tea Selection: Known for its high-quality coffee and an excellent selection of Japanese teas and specialty lattes.
• Unique Toasts: The menu features a variety of toasts with sweet and savory toppings, made with thick-cut Japanese milk bread.
• Delicious Japanese Comfort Food: Serves classic dishes like Chicken Katsu Don and Mentai Spaghetti, providing a satisfying and flavorful meal.
• Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The intimate space with vintage decor creates a charming and romantic environment, perfect for a casual outing.
• Vegetarian Options: The menu includes several vegetarian-friendly dishes, such as the Garden Salad and various toasts.
• Fast Service: Patrons often highlight the fast and efficient service, despite the small size of the cafe.

Contact Information

Address: 102 Suffolk St, New York, NY 10002, USA

Phone: (646) 988-1973

What is worth choosing

For a local in New York, what is worth choosing at Davelle is the entire experience. It's a place that transcends the typical restaurant or cafe, offering a little slice of Japan in the middle of Manhattan. The food is undoubtedly a major draw. The toasts, while a little indulgent, are a must-try for their unique flavors and beautiful presentation. The Chicken Katsu Don is also a fan favorite, praised for being delicious and filling. The Mentai Pasta, with its salty, umami taste, is a standout dish that is a true representation of Japanese "drunk food" and is a must-try for the adventurous eater.

Beyond the food, the drinks are a highlight. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or a tea lover, you'll find something to enjoy from their expertly curated menu. The Iced Matcha Au Lait with Coffee Jelly is a particularly unique and delicious choice. The small, intimate setting, while a challenge at times due to limited seating, is part of its charm. It makes the experience feel more personal and exclusive, and the service is often noted for being friendly and attentive. The fact that it is an inclusive and welcoming space for everyone, including the LGBTQ+ community, adds to its appeal as a true community spot. If you're looking for a quiet, cozy, and unforgettable meal that combines exceptional coffee and authentic Japanese comfort food, Davelle is an excellent choice for a well-deserved treat.

Davelle

102 Suffolk St, New York, NY 10002, USA